2024 Classic Scholarship Recipients

The Friends of The Classic Foundation

2023-2024 Season

Ann Gearhart
Anna Gearhart attends Centerville High School and she has committed to swim for the University of Kansas, an NCAA Division I school. Her field of study will be either business marketing or sports management.

Anna has been quite busy at Centerville -- accepted into National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, Octagon Club, Elk Connector, lunch buddies, and BOLD (Build Our Lives Drug-free).

In her letter of recommendation, the Intervention Counselor at her school describes Anna as a young woman who is a phenomenal leader who possesses strong character.

Congratulations, Anna.

Oliver Gao
Oliver Gao, of Mason High School, has been focused on giving back.

ANJO Swim Clinic (501c), named for Oliver and his siblings, gives one-on-one swim lessons. All earnings amounting to $3500 were donated to nonprofits. Oliver’s church service includes children's Sunday school, organizing large-group events, and leading worship sets. His school clubs include Mock Trial and National Chinese Honor Society.

Oliver's school counselor stated in her letter of recommendation that academically he stands out as one of the most dedicated and intellectually gifted students she has encountered throughout her career, demonstrating a passion for learning.

Oliver has applied to OSU, but he hopes to attend UNC, with an undecided major.

Congratulations, Oliver.

Lorelai Wolverton
Lorelai Wolverton is finishing high school at Bellbrook where she served as captain of the cross country team. She was named MVP of track and field, and was selected for National Honor Society. Outside of school, Lorelai volunteers with Awana, a Bible study group and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Lorelai has applied to Wright State University, but she really hopes to attend Cedarville University to become an elementary teacher.

In his letter of recommendation, her math teacher stated that the legacy that Lorelai has created at Bellbrook will be long-lasting because she has conducted herself in such a mature, polished, and respectful way.

Best wishes to you, Lorelai.

Caleb Manning
Caleb Manning comes from Beavercreek High School. He applied to Brigham Young University, University of Arizona, Grand Canyon University, plus several others. He hopes to major in biology at the University of Las Vegas, which is closer to family.

As an Eagle Scout, his project was completed at 4 Paws for Ability. He is a church youth leader, a special needs aide, and Peer Helping for Suicide Support.

Both his club coach and the parent of a special needs son spoke in their letters of recommendation of his excellence as a role model. His kindness and patience are just a fraction of his character. He has stood up for others when it was not easy or popular, but was the right decision.

Caleb's contribution will leave a lasting mark in the swimming community in Dayton.

Best wishes in your future endeavors, Caleb.

Audrey Zimmerman
Audrey Zimmerman, from St. Ursula Academy, applied to several schools: Auburn, Davidson, Wake Forest, Ball State, OSU to name a few. She's still weighing her options on where to continue swimming and to study chemical engineering.

While at St. Ursula, Audrey has tutored, been a member of four inschool clubs, such as National Honor Society and National Spanish Honor Society. Outside of school, she has volunteered at Su Casa, Cincinnati Animal Care, and Social Justice Club.

Her physics and math teacher described Audrey as a quiet but strong leader, who sets an example for others with her exceptional work ethic and responsibility. She continues that Audrey has a great sense of humor and is able to find the positive, even in frustrating circumstances.

Best of luck in your further education, Audrey.

Jarrett Payne
Jarrett Payne attends Sidney High School and he has committed to swim for the University of Alabama, majoring in business.

Jarrett has been very involved beyond swimming at school, belonging to Key Club, Student Government, National Honor Society, JacketPack Leader, a school spirit club. He volunteered for the blood drive, was as Team Leader/Fundraiser for Stop Soldier Suicide, Special Olympics, Kiwanis, and Earth Day Clean-up Crew.

In his letter of recommendation, the Athletic Director said that he will remember Jarrett most for the leadership he provided to the student body. He further stated that, in an age when quality sportsmanship is declining, Jarrett has created the premier positive student cheering section in their conference.

Good luck to you, Jarrett.